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On Friday afternoon, November 22, 2024, the Metropolis of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia joyfully welcomed the Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew, marking a historic moment for the local Church.
Accompanied by a large Patriarchal entourage, including Metropolitans Joseph of Proikonnesos and Maximos of Silivria, the Grand Ecclesiarch Aetios, and other distinguished members, the Ecumenical Patriarch arrived from Constantinople.
The reception, held at the Cathedral of the Dormition of the Theotokos, was attended by hierarchs, state representatives, and a large crowd of faithful honoring the leader of Orthodoxy.
Metropolitan Gabriel of Nea Ionia and Philadelphia warmly greeted the Ecumenical Patriarch, emphasizing the responsibility to preserve the heritage of Hellenism from Asia Minor.
In his reply, the Ecumenical Patriarch praised Metropolitan Gabriel as a dynamic and pioneering hierarch of the Church of Greece.
They then proceeded to Nea Philadelphia Square, now named “Patriarch’s Square”, where the Ecumenical Patriarch interacted with local officials and inaugurated a new chapel in memory of a supporter of AEK.
Prayers were offered for the supporter’s eternal memory, with the Ecumenical Patriarch condemning violence and honoring the young man’s legacy.
“We denounce and strongly condemn acts of violence by fans.”
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